Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Picea glauca 'Conica' is a small, dense evergreen, widely used as an accent specimen or novelty tree—also great for small spaces.

About This Plant

Also called dwarf white spruce. Popular, slow-growing, dense conifer, widely available. Eventually 10–12 feet high but takes 25–30 years to mature. Hardy Zones 2–6. Soft light green needles, pyramidal form provide unique vertical structural accent. Handles high winds, cold, heat, drought. Spiral/sheared specialty forms available. Occasionally used as container accent.

Site Selection

Well-drained soil, full sun preferred but tolerates some shade. Small size/slow growth suits foundation plantings. Cold winters: north/east exposure reduces winter burn from drying winds/afternoon sun. Allow 3–4 feet from center to structures for unimpeded growth. Great accent in perennial/rose/shrub beds.

Planting Instructions

Measure container soil depth/width. Dig hole to that depth, 2–3x wider. Pile excavated soil. Loosen hole sides for root penetration. Don't loosen bottom—settling may plant too deep. Poor soil: amend excavated soil with 1/3 compost. Mulch 2–4 inches shredded bark, keep away from trunk.

Care

Little pruning needed for compact pyramidal shape. Watch for spider mites—treat early. Water gently with slow stream or soaker hose to wet entire rootball depth. Water new plants until ground freezes. Established: relatively drought-tolerant.